Microsoft has taken a significant step towards enhancing user experience in Windows 11 by modifying the default behavior of its Widgets feature. The company has confirmed that the MSN feed will no longer be displayed by default when users hover over the Widgets icon, a move aimed at reducing distractions and creating a more serene interface.
Changes to the Widgets Experience
This new approach is being rolled out gradually through the Windows 11 Insider Experimental Preview Build 26300.8346. The intention behind these changes is clear: to streamline the Widgets board, which previously presented users with a cluttered array of content, often deemed low-value. The previous setup, where simply hovering over the weather icon would trigger an overwhelming display of information, has been a point of contention among users.
Microsoft’s decision to disable the MSN feed by default reflects a broader understanding of user sentiment. Even CEO Satya Nadella has acknowledged the need to “win back” Windows 11 enthusiasts. In light of this, the company is testing several modifications to improve the Widgets experience:
- By default, Windows will no longer open the Widgets board on hover; users will need to click the Widgets icon to access it.
- Taskbar badging, which includes distracting red notification dots indicating breaking news and alerts, will be turned off by default.
- Animated taskbar alerts that previously cycled through dynamic updates will only appear after user interaction with the Widgets board.
- Upon first launching the Widgets board, users will now see their core widgets—such as weather, calendar, and system stats—rather than being inundated with the MSN news feed.
This last change is particularly noteworthy, given Microsoft’s historical reliance on data collection for personalized advertising. While users have always had the option to disable these features manually, many remain unaware or indifferent. The backlash against forced features like Copilot and the MSN feed has prompted Microsoft to rethink its strategy, as users increasingly migrate away from Windows 11.
Manual Adjustments for Users
For those eager to customize their Widgets experience immediately, there are straightforward steps to disable the default settings:
- To turn off the “Open Widgets board on hover”: Hover over the Widgets icon or press Win + W, click the settings icon in the top right, and toggle off the option.
- To disable the MSN feed: Below the “Open Widgets board on hover” option, select “Show or hide feeds,” then toggle off the Feed option and confirm by clicking “Turn off.”
- To completely remove Widgets from Windows 11: Navigate to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar and turn off the toggle for Widgets.
While some users appreciate having a minimal display, such as just the weather, the constant alerts and the MSN feed have been sources of frustration. Microsoft’s recent commitment to creating a calmer operating system, free from excessive upselling and advertisements, is reflected in these changes. By ensuring that the Widgets board only reveals relevant information upon deliberate user action, the company is making strides toward fulfilling its promise.
In addition to these adjustments, a redesign of the MSN feed is on the horizon, featuring rounded corners reminiscent of the aesthetics seen in Copilot. This shift aims to create a clearer distinction between the Widgets and the MSN Discover feed, potentially alleviating the previously overwhelming interface.
As Microsoft continues to refine the Widgets experience, it remains to be seen how the company will address the revenue implications of phasing out the MSN feed. With Bing recently surpassing 1 billion users, the challenge will be to balance user satisfaction with financial performance as these updates roll out to the wider audience.
